The Timeless Iowa Restaurant Everyone Needs To Visit At Least Once

Breitbach's Country Dining is the oldest restaurant and bar in Iowa. This family-owned eatery has a long and vibrant history that's not without drama and strife.

The GPS address for Breitbach's Country Dining is 563 Balltown Road, Sherrill, Iowa

Breitbach's Country Dining opened in 1852. The great-great grandchild of the original owner is master and commander of this amazing place, today.

This restaurant is in its sixth generation of family ownership. Mike and Cindy Breitbach keep things running smoothly, and offer a dining experience that is one-of-a-kind in Iowa.

The original structure burned in December of 2007 as the result of a basement explosion. It was nominated to the Register of Historic Buildings.

After being rebuilt, it burned down again in October of 2008.

The Breitbachs persisted, and rebuilt the restaurant for a second time. It has remained open since July 2009.

All of the food served here is prepared fresh each day. The from-scratch menu includes legendary pie. Many customers take food "to go" after their meal.

Breitbach's Country Dining received the James Beard Foundation award, "American Classics" in 2009.

Thursday is German Buffet Day. Enjoy bratwurst and sauerkraut, pork schnitzel in cream sauce, potato pancakes, german potato salad, and broasted chicken from 4pm until 8pm.

This place is famous for its giant tenderloins.

It's a country restaurant with traditional food, so mashed potatoes and chicken are some of their most popular dishes.

The breakfasts here are also well-reviewed. Many frequent visitors enjoy a slice of pie for dessert, no matter the time of day.

After eating, many visitors take time to walk about 1/2 block to the overlook, where beautiful views of the MIssissippi River await.

Breitbach's Country Dining is open Tuesdays from 8am until 2pm, Wednesdays and Tursdays from 8am until 8pm, Fridays and Saturdays from 8am until 9:30pm, and Sundays from 8am until 7:30pm. You can find them on Facebook, or visit their website for more information.

Are there other Iowa restaurants with a long history and amazing story that we should know about? Tell us about it in the comments.